Strategies to support the appropriate use of prescription opioids: a systematic review
Reasons for the study
Abuse of prescription opioids is a serious public health and safety problem in North America. To date, there has been no collection, analysis and synthesis of strategies aimed at improving the appropriate use of prescription opioids and reducing misuse, abuse, addiction and opioid-related deaths. This information is desperately needed to stem the current opioid crisis. This comprehensive systematic review of the research literature will help fill this void, thus helping prevent a duplication of efforts in the development of strategies to promote appropriate use of prescription opioids.
Objectives of the study
- To conduct a systematic review of existing strategies, frameworks, collaborative networks and materials to promote the appropriate use of prescription opioids and/or to reduce the abuse of these drugs
Anticipated results/impact
The findings of this review will be relevant to a diverse group of stakeholders with an interest in addressing the current opioid crisis, including health-care and public health professionals, policy-makers, law enforcers, regulators and insurance payers.
Related scientific publications
Related interviews and articles
Project status
Completed 2017
Research team
Participating organizations
Canadian Centre for Substance Abuse
Centre for Addiction and Mental Health
College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario
Health Canada
Ontario Provincial Police
RCMP Drugs and Organized Crime Service
Funded by
Canadian Institutes of Health Research